Printing & Technique
Edge-to-edge
A direct-to-card print that reaches close to the edges but leaves a thin unprinted border, not the same as over-the-edge.
"Edge to edge" is often used loosely in marketing. On a direct-to-card printer it means the design prints nearly to the edges but leaves a small white border, because the print head cannot print off the card. True borderless printing that wraps over the edge is called over-the-edge and only retransfer printers do it. Knowing the difference keeps you from overpaying, see our edge-to-edge vs over-the-edge guide.
More on this in we break down both printing methods.
The practical takeaway: an "edge to edge" direct-to-card printer leaves a small, usually unnoticeable border and costs far less than a retransfer printer that prints truly over the edge. Do not pay retransfer prices because a listing implied DTC cannot reach the edge.
Where this leads
If you are working this out for a live card program, start with shop Fargo, Magicard, and Evolis printers.
Related terms
Questions about Edge-to-edge?
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